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Elk Rock
Overview
Elk Rock State Park serves as a premier destination for RVers seeking a quiet retreat along the banks of Lake Red Rock. Named for the majestic animals that once inhabited this region of the Midwest, the park combines rich historical significance with modern outdoor recreation. It is a place where travelers can truly disconnect and enjoy the expansive Iowa sky and the gentle sounds of the lake. The park provides a tranquil atmosphere that feels worlds away from the hustle of the city, making it a favorite for long-term travelers and weekenders alike.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Marion County near Knoxville, the park is defined by its proximity to the shores of Lake Red Rock, the largest reservoir in the state. The landscape is a diverse mix of lush timber, open meadows, and dramatic limestone bluffs that overlook the water. This unique topography offers a sense of seclusion and natural beauty that is hard to find in more urban settings. The surrounding area is characterized by rolling hills that provide excellent vantage points for photographers and nature lovers looking to capture the essence of the Iowa wilderness.
Amenities & Park Features
The park provides well-maintained camping facilities, including a variety of sites with 50-amp electrical hookups suitable for larger rigs. Essential amenities include:
- Modern restroom and shower facilities located within easy walking distance of the campsites.
- A dedicated equestrian campground complete with stalls and hitching rails for those traveling with horses.
- Multiple accessible boat ramps that provide easy entry into Lake Red Rock for fishing or pleasure boating.
These features, along with a convenient dump station and a community playground, ensure that your stay is both comfortable and functional.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the park gates, the "Sprint Car Capital of the World" awaits at the Knoxville Raceway, offering high-speed thrills for racing fans. Additionally, the nearby town of Pella offers a charming glimpse into Dutch culture with its historic architecture and famous bakeries. On-site, visitors can explore over 13 miles of multi-use trails, which are perfect for adventurous hikers, birdwatchers, and horseback riders. The lake itself is a hub for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing for crappie and walleye.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an exceptional choice for equestrian travelers and outdoor adventurers who value direct access to water and extensive trail systems. It is ideal for families looking for a traditional camping experience centered around nature rather than commercial entertainment. If you are searching for a scenic and peaceful basecamp near Knoxville, this park offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and necessary RV amenities for a relaxing stay.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Mike Gooch
Great close to home place to ride for a few hours. Campsites are nice and level. Hitching rails could use some attention as well as the grading around them.
Pat Peel
We have been camping at elk rock state park every august.For at least the past ten years. The campground is nice. They keep it mowed, but they definitely need to update the bathroom and shower area. They have done some upgrades throughout the park, but this is one specific area that has not been touched.
Mike Wetzel
It was a beautiful fall day to get on water. Was happy to see their dock was still it. Pretty well had the place to ourselves.
Alex Murphy
Great campsites in the non-electric loop (campsites numbered in the 80's). Plenty of room to spread out. We rented four spots, ended up realizing the ground was too hard at the flattest spot of each site for tent stakes (seems to be an old gravel pad about 2" below dirt). Gotta get creative and sleep on a slight incline, but that's camping! Fire pits all have swivel grills, each site has a picnic table. Bathrooms are about a block away, and are sooo clean.
Amber Clark
Elk Rock is a beautiful park and the camping spots are well kept. Loved the firepit and how clean it was! I also loved how the spots were pull through and well graveled. The whole circle camping area was all pull through spots with a big open field in the middle, perfect for a volleyball net. The bathrooms were also clean and the showers had high pressure and hot water, a big plus. Oh and it is close to Knoxville and Pella! We did a lot of running around and it was convenient to come back to rest at Elk Rock for lunch or dinner and then go back into town. My family definitely plans on going back for another enjoyable weekend camping.
